RAMAPO, NY — A former graduate of the Ramapo Police Youth Academy has officially begun her career in law enforcement after graduating from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) Police Academy.

Officer Clarissa Metellus, a 2019 graduate of the Ramapo Police Youth Academy in Rockland County, was among 959 new NYPD officers who graduated on Tuesday, November 10, 2026.
The milestone was especially meaningful for the Ramapo Police Department, which celebrated Metellus’ journey from a local youth academy participant to a New York City police officer.
Among those attending the graduation ceremony was Ramapo Police Sgt. Anton, who served as the School Resource Officer at Ramapo High School in the East Ramapo Central School District in 2019.
Sgt. Anton attended the ceremony to personally congratulate Metellus and witness the former Youth Academy graduate take the next step in her law enforcement career.
The Ramapo Police Youth Academy provides young people with exposure to law enforcement and opportunities to build relationships with local police officers. Metellus’ achievement highlights the lasting impact these programs can have on young people considering careers in public service.
“Seeing a former Youth Academy graduate take the next step into a career in law enforcement is a proud moment for our entire department and a reminder of the lasting impact of our youth outreach programs,” the Ramapo Police Department said in a statement.
The department also congratulated all 959 members of the NYPD’s graduating class while offering special recognition to Metellus.
“All of us at Ramapo PD are incredibly proud of you. We wish you a long, safe, and successful career serving the people of New York City,” the department added.
Metellus now begins her career protecting and serving the residents of New York City, marking a proud moment for the Ramapo Police Department and the Rockland County community.